Manuel Noriega

Profession: Panamanian General and DictatorWhy Famous:Manuel Noriega came to prominence in the Panama National Guard under Omar Torrijos. When Torrijos died in a plane crash Noriega emerged as head of the National Guard, appointing himself General.

During his period Noriega began working with the US CIA providing them with intelligence. At the same time Noriega established himself as a major drug trafficker.

From 1983 Noriega effectively acted as Dictator, controlling the country. In 1989 he voided elections after it was clear his candidates had lost.

American retaliated by imposing sanctions and invaded the country in December 1989. Noriega evaded capture for days before being sent back to the US and convicted on drugs charges.

Noriega was also convicted in France of money laundering before being sent back to Panama to serve time for crimes committed during his rule.